Omani cuisine is influenced by the countries that border it, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Yemen. As a result, the cuisine is pretty similar to the typical types of food eaten in the surrounding countries. Boasting a rich food culture, most dishes comprise meat, vegetables, and rice. Although, it’s worth mentioning that this country consumes more seafood, especially in the areas near the ocean. So, if you too are planning to make this cuisine at home, then we are here with a list of some simple Omani dishes that you can make at home easily.
Omani Dishes That You Can Make At Home
1. Majboos
Majboos is a traditional Omani dish that is also often called Kabsa. Although it looks similar to Biryani, one must not confuse the two dishes to be the same. This flavourful rice dish is popular across Oman and it comprises meat, vegetable, and a variety of spices. Chicken Majboos is a highly popular version of this dish, and they’re usually prepared in large portions that can be served on special occasions. This recipe by Shaziya’s Kitchen will make it easier for you to make this flavourful rice-based dish at home.
2. Shuwa
Shuwa is also famous as the national dish of Oman. Whenever someone talks about Omani Cuisine, this dish is mentioned without fail! A dish made from roasted lamb, it is cooked in a pit that has to be specially dug into the ground. This is a great dish to make at home if you have a pit-like set up in your backyard. While traditionally, the lamb cooks slowly for 24 hours, this recipe by Kitchen Daily Recipes doesn’t take as long. It shows the viewers how to prepare this dish at home, and without the use of a pit! Since preparing this dish underground is not an option for many people, you can replicate the method by cooking it in a steamer at home for a similar taste.
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3. Mashuai
Mashuai is a popular fish-based dish that is roasted by cooking over an open flame or over a barbecue. This recipe is for Fish Mashwi that has been posted by Mr & Mrs ASUBE Province Life. The video gives detailed instructions about all the spices and cooking techniques to be employed for making this lip-smacking fish dish at home. Using a blend of herbs and easily available spices, we are sure this recipe is going to be a hit with your family.
4. Mushaltat
Mushaltat is also often known as meshaltat. To put it simply, this is a stuffed flatbread, wherein the filling may range from anything, including cheese and honey to spinach or meat. Making this flatbread is pretty easy, but the trick of the perfect mushaltat lies in its dough. This recipe by Miriam’s Kitchen is simple and perfect for those making this flatbread for the first time. While she doesn’t use any fillings, she is, however, seen using Crisco in a generous amount.
5. Arsia
Arsia is another traditional Omani dish that you can easily make at home. It is generally made with a few basic ingredients, including rice, lamb, spices, and sauce, which are then pounded together. Although it may resemble hummus, this is much more firm and is often eaten with hands (or spoon if you feel like it) by scooping up a bite-size portion. The method of cooking by Easy Cooking is not only simple to follow, but the end results will make you want to prepare this dish for your family. However, once the cooking is done, it’s the pounding that is the most labour-intensive part. While you can use a food processor to get the results without giving your arms a workout, you can also do it manually.
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6. Omani Halwa
After all those mouth-watering savoury dishes, it’s time to end this list with a dessert. And what’s better than an Omani Halwa? Nothing at all! Made with sugar and spices such as cardamom and nuts, this traditional dessert is often also called candy. Once you have all the ingredients required to make the perfect halwa at home, do follow the recipe as shown by Culinary World By Alima. The perfect sweet dish that can be served after a filling meal, this ooey-gooey dessert certainly has its own fan base!
So, folks, we have done your homework. Now all you have to do is get all the ingredients in your pantry and start cooking for a stellar feast.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons